When it comes to traveling across Europe, most tourists come equipped with a checklist of must-see places: London, Paris, and Rome, among others. Meanwhile, lesser-known cities remain under the radar for most travelers—but bypassing these “second cities” would be a mistake, as these destinations offer distinctive cultures and histories that are worth experiencing firsthand. From a quaint, medieval Latvian town with stunning 13th-century architecture to a vibrant Greek coastal city with friendly locals and fresh fish, these cities prove that “second” doesn’t always mean “second best.” Here are our picks for Europe’s best second cities.